Caprese salad

Here’s a simple yet elegant classic: Caprese Salad (Insalata Caprese) — a fresh Italian dish that highlights ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It’s all about quality ingredients and clean flavors.

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🍅🧀🌿 Caprese Salad (Insalata Caprese)

🍽️ Serves: 2–4 (as a starter or side)

⏱️ Ready in: 10 minutes

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📝 Ingredients:

• 3–4 ripe tomatoes (heirloom, vine, or Roma), sliced

• 8 oz fresh mozzarella (or burrata), sliced

• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

• Extra-virgin olive oil

• Flaky sea salt (like Maldon)

• Freshly ground black pepper

• Optional: balsamic glaze or aged balsamic vinegar

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👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Slice:

   • Cut tomatoes and mozzarella into 1/4″–1/2″ slices.

2. Layer:

   • Arrange tomato and mozzarella slices alternately on a plate (shingled or stacked), tucking in basil leaves between or on top.

3. Drizzle & Season:

   • Drizzle generously with olive oil.

   • Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and cracked black pepper.

   • (Optional) Drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze for extra depth.

4. Serve Immediately:

   • Best enjoyed fresh at room temperature with crusty bread.

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🧠 Tips:

• Use high-quality mozzarella di bufala or fior di latte if possible.

• If tomatoes are watery, lightly salt and let sit for 10 min, then drain.

• A pinch of oregano or chili flakes can add a twist, but purists keep it minimal.

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Would you like a Caprese pasta, skewer-style appetizer, or a burrata upgrade version?